Johanna Combes, born in the year 1470, emerged into a world vastly different from our own. Her story unfolds against the backdrop of medieval England, a time marked by both hardship and hope. Little is known about her early life, including her birthplace, but the fragments of history we have reveal a woman whose existence was intertwined with the dynamic tapestry of her era.

Before her marriage to Johannes ‘John’ Toose de Taunton, Johanna’s life remains largely shrouded in mystery. The socio-economic issues of her time, driven by class distinctions and limited opportunities for women, would have presented challenges. Her family, consisting of her parents Johannis Combes and Johanna Maria Aben, might have struggled with the constraints imposed by their social standing.

The marriage of Johanna to Johannes Toose marked a significant turning point in her life. Together, they bore witness to a world undergoing transformation. Taunton, their home, was part of Somerset, England, a region deeply impacted by the tumultuous historical events of the late 15th century. Amidst the Wars of the Roses, the Toose family would have faced uncertainty and upheaval, as political and military conflicts raged around them.

Johanna and Johannes were blessed with eight children: Lord William II Toose, Anastasia, Alicia Somerset, Johana, Alexander, Robert, Margery, and Nicholas. Raising a large family in the 15th century required resilience and resourcefulness. While little is known about their specific occupations, it is likely that they engaged in agricultural work or other trades common in their time.

As a family, they may have experienced the challenges of migrations, although specific details remain elusive. The movement between towns and cities was often driven by economic necessity or the pursuit of better opportunities. These migrations were not undertaken lightly, as they required adaptation to new environments and communities.

The year 1502 marked a somber note in Johanna’s life. She passed away in Taunton, her final resting place being the St. Mary Magdalene Church. The circumstances of her death and the cause remain mysteries lost to time, but her legacy endures through her descendants.

The Toose family’s journey unfolded amidst the backdrop of significant historical events. The Wars of the Roses, which saw the struggle for the English throne, would have undoubtedly shaped their lives. Socio-economic issues persisted, with class distinctions and limited opportunities for women posing challenges. Yet, in the face of adversity, they carved out a life together, raised a family, and contributed to the fabric of their community.

Johanna Combes’ story is a testament to the resilience of individuals in the face of historical turbulence. Her life, though relatively obscure, reflects the broader struggles and triumphs of a bygone era, offering us a glimpse into the challenges and aspirations of a family in medieval England.